The University of Pretoria Tuks forward made her eagerly anticipated bow for South Africa on Friday, featuring in the 4-0 victory over Madagascar at the Toyota Stadium in the first leg of their 2028 Olympic Games qualifier.

Qashani is one of the most exciting young talents in South African women’s football and has earned a growing reputation for her spectacular long-range strikes and eye-catching hat-tricks. Her attacking flair has made her a player to watch, and she now has the opportunity to showcase her talent on the international stage.

Thembi Kgatlana remains one of Banyana Banyana’s premier strikers. Photo: Morgan Piek

Although she was named on the substitutes’ bench for Friday’s first leg, Qashani had to wait for her chance. When the opportunity finally came on Tuesday, she made the most of it with an impressive performance and even came close to getting her name on the scoresheet.

Reflecting on her first taste of senior international football, Qashani described the experience as nothing short of amazing.

“I feel great. It’s been a wonderful experience, and I’m so happy that the team managed to win,” said Qashani.

“It all came down to teamwork, with no one being greater than anyone else. We all played our part in the game.

“Making my debut has been an amazing experience, and I’m grateful for how warmly the team welcomed me. I’m also happy that we managed to win two of our games.”

For the young forward, settling into the national team environment has been made considerably easier by the support and encouragement of her more experienced teammates. Rather than feeling out of place among some of the country's established stars, Qashani says she has been embraced by the squad and given the freedom to learn and grow.

Siyamthanda Qashani taking a shot on debut for South Africa in the 1st leg. Photo: Morgan Piek

“I feel like the new baby in the team, with everyone taking care of me and making sure I follow the right protocols. They’ve made me feel welcome, and I truly appreciate that.

“Everyone is guiding and motivating me, reminding me that I can reach their level of experience with time. They’re patient and aren’t putting too much pressure on me, but they also challenge me to improve.

“They help calm my nerves while allowing me to be myself, and I believe that will help me grow.”

Making her debut in Bloemfontein added another special touch to an already memorable occasion. Playing in front of an enthusiastic home crowd for the first time left a lasting impression on the Tuks star, who was delighted by the support Banyana Banyana received at the Toyota Stadium.

“It’s been amazing. The atmosphere is incredible, and it’s the first time I’ve played in front of so many people. It’s wonderful to see that we have supporters who love us. I would really love for them to continue supporting us.”

Qashani also had plenty of praise for Banyana Banyana coach Desiree Ellis, whose guidance has helped her understand what is required to make the step up from club football to the international stage.

Isabella Ludwig also asked good questions of the Madagascar defence but just couldn’t score a goal in the 1st leg. Photo: Morgan Piek

The youngster particularly appreciates the balance Ellis strikes between offering tactical guidance and allowing her to express herself as a player.

“Our coach has been amazing. She guides me step by step and shows me what it takes to play at national level compared to club level. I appreciate how she takes me aside, allows me to ask questions, and gives me direction.

“She also allows me to express myself and play my natural game, while reminding me that I need to score goals as well. I couldn’t score today, but she has given me the platform to express myself as a player.”

While Qashani’s senior debut is an important milestone in her blossoming career, the young forward will now be eager to build on that experience and force her way into Ellis’ plans for the challenges ahead.

With crucial FIFA Women’s World Cup play-offs against Chinese Taipei, Ecuador, and Uzbekistan scheduled for November and December, Qashani will be hoping her first taste of international football has done enough to convince the coach that she deserves a bigger role in the months ahead.

For now, the promising forward can savour a dream debut, valuable lessons learned, and the feeling of finally being part of the Banyana Banyana family.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cvs